As we celebrate our independence, we asked some people what the Fourth of July means to them.

WYMT's Mackenzie Bates stopped by Hazard's fish fry Friday morning and talked with several people about the holiday and its true meaning.

To some people, the Fourth of July holiday is a time to cook out, spend time at the pool and shoot off some fireworks. But to others, its all about taking a step back to reflect.

“We have men and women that are serving in a place I couldn't imagine going. I just respect them so much. My father was in the service. My father-in-law was in the service and they really sacrificed a lot,” Tammy Hanlon said.

The city of Hazard hosted a fish fry at city hall, bringing people together to celebrate our nation's independence.

One person we talked to says its important to remember the sacrifices.

“Because without them, we would not be able to do this,” Randy Hackney said.

“It's a celebration that my ancestors and my friend's ancestors died so that I could have freedom of religion and freedom to do the things that I want to do,” Fred Bittner said.

For kids, It's no surprise what they look forward to when it comes to the Fourth of July.

“It's a lot of fun because we get to watch fireworks,” Shyne Miller said.

Hanlon says the sacrifice of soldiers to keep us free should be remembered not only during the holiday, but everyday.

“I think we tend to get involved in our own lives and not being where they are we forget what they're doing to give us the life that we have here,” Hanlon said.